Dr. Ronny Jackson, President Donald Trump's choice to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs, announced his decision to withdraw his nomination, citing "false allegations" of previous misconduct as becoming too big of a distraction.

Jackson's nomination was dogged from the start. The U.S. Navy rear admiral was the White House doctor to three presidents but had no experience leading a department with 360,000 employees serving 9 million veterans -- a criteria the White House contends that no person can meet.

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The nomination, which was criticized by lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, ran into further troubles when allegations surfaced of improper workplace conduct in Jackson's past. The accusations regarded recklessly prescribing drugs -- leading to an alleged nickname, "The Candy Man" -- and drunken behavior.

If Jackson was confirmed, he would have replaced David Shulkin, who was fired as VA secretary by Trump last month.

Jackson will remain the White House doctor.

"Unfortunately, because of how Washington works," Jackson said in a Thursday morning statement, "these false allegations have become a distraction for this president and the important issue we must be addressing -- how we give the best care to our nation's heroes.

"While I will forever be grateful for the trust and confidence President Trump has placed in me by giving me this opportunity, I am regretfully withdrawing my nomination to be Secretary for the Department of Veterans affairs.

"I am proud of my service to the country and will always be committed to the brave veterans who volunteer to defend our freedoms."

Shortly after Jackson dropped out, President Donald Trump called into the "Fox & Friends" morning show to praise the doctor as an “incredible man” who “runs a fantastic operation.”

Trump placed the blame on Montana Democratic Sen. Jon Tester, whose office issued a report Wednesday listing allegations it had gathered about Jackson's work as White House doctor.

"I think Jon Tester has to have a big price to pay in Montana," Trump said.